Other Sports of Wednesday, 11 August 2004

Source: GNA

No visa limitations, Greek official says

Accra, Aug 11, GNA - Mr Jacob Spertsios, Director responsible for Sub-Saharan Division at the Greek Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Athens has noted that there was no limit to visa entry for Ghanaian supporters, provided they are qualified for the entry requirements for the country and for that matter of the Schengen nations.

A statement from the Ministry of Education, Youth and Sports signed for the Minister by Mr Kwesi Assan-Brew, said the director made the declaration in Athens when Mr Kwadwo Baah Wiredu had discussions with him while in Athens over the frustrations many Ghanaians were going through in obtaining visas to travel to Athens for the Games.

According to the statement, the Director expressed sympathy on the plight of the Ghanaians but explained that as a member of the Schengen nations they are bound to apply the entry visa requirements to all Schengen nations.

The director said the Spanish Embassy in Accra was therefore obliged to consider fresh applications for entry visas during the course of the games.

Mr Spertsios said the behaviour of the Ghanaians who have already been issued with visas would determine the fate of their compatriots at home.

He said if they are found to be disciplined and were prepared to return home immediately after the Games, then the Spanish authorities will not hesitate to issue those in Ghana more entry visas.